The Mediterranean jurisdiction is not just a country with a rich history, a mild climate, and a sea breeze, but a state that offers not only comfortable living conditions but also full integration into the European community. Therefore, the question of how to obtain Greek citizenship in 2025 is more relevant than ever. Especially against the backdrop of a stable economy, a stable legal system, and a growing interest in the Greek passport.
But becoming a resident is not just about submitting an application. It is a whole system of requirements, deadlines, foundations, and legal procedures. Some methods are open to everyone, others are only available in exceptional cases. And if you understand the logic, the sequence, and the nuances, the process no longer seems insurmountable.
How to Obtain Greek Citizenship: Key Paths in 2025
Currently, there are several legal ways to obtain Greek citizenship, each regulated by separate conditions. The choice depends on origin, place of birth, family circumstances, length of residence, and degree of involvement in Greek society. Below are ways to obtain citizenship:
- by naturalization — the most common option for those who have legally resided in the country for at least 7 years;
- by marriage — possible with an official union with a resident and cohabitation for at least 3 years;
- by birth — relevant for children born on the state’s territory from parents with a residence permit;
- by repatriation — suitable for those with Greek roots who can prove it documentarily;
- by investments — an indirect method involving participation in the economy and long-term residence;
- by special merits — only available in exceptional cases at the state’s initiative.
Each path has its own nuances, but the essence is the same: you must either be born with the right to a passport or earn it through years, actions, or origin.
Citizenship by Naturalization: a Stable and Accessible Option
Learning how to obtain Greek citizenship through naturalization remains the most common and regulated legal path. In 2025, this is possible after 7 years of uninterrupted legal residence in the country. The applicant must demonstrate their integration: learning the language, paying taxes, obeying the laws, and participating in social life.
The key stage is the exam (written test on language, history, constitution, and state structure knowledge). Income, source of funds, housing, and the absence of criminal records are also evaluated.
Greek Citizenship through Marriage: Simplification in Family Ties
If you are in an official marriage with a resident, you have the right to apply after 3 years of cohabitation. You must provide evidence of cohabitation, joint ownership, and preferably having children.
Citizenship through marriage is not automatically guaranteed. It is only granted in genuine relationships that are not formal. The scrutiny is thorough, especially in cases of suspected sham marriages.
Greek Citizenship by Birth and Repatriation
If a child is born on the country’s territory but their parents are foreigners, they can obtain Greek citizenship if at least one of the parents has legally resided in the country for at least five years.
A separate case is repatriation — when someone can directly prove their Greek descent. In this case, the procedure is significantly simplified: long-term residence or exams are not required, but it is necessary to prove your descent documentarily. When considering how to obtain Greek citizenship, repatriation is one of the most direct and fast ways with confirmed roots.
Through Investments and Merits: Exceptions, Not the Rule
Contrary to popular belief, Greek citizenship through investments is not directly granted. A “golden visa” entitles to a residence permit upon purchasing real estate starting from 250,000 euros, but obtaining a passport this way requires not only residence but also full naturalization.
Another option is Greek citizenship for special merits. This is very rare and only possible at the state’s initiative (significant contribution to science, sports, culture, or strategically important areas).
Which Documents Are Required?
The document package depends on the basis on which the application is submitted. To understand how to obtain Greek citizenship, it is important to start with a basic set of documents required when submitting the application. Let’s look at the main documents essential for the process:
- valid passport;
- birth certificate;
- proof of legal residence (residence permit, permanent residence permit, registration);
- proof of no criminal record;
- proof of income or employment;
- marriage certificate (if applicable);
- documents on descent (in case of repatriation).
The documents must be translated into Greek, notarized, and submitted in the required format. The processing speed directly depends on the correct submission.
How to Become a Citizen of Greece: Timelines, Exam, and Possible Rejections
After submitting the application, the process, depending on the basis, can take from 6 months to 2 years. It all depends on the system’s workload, the completeness of the package, and the need for additional checks.
In naturalization, a mandatory step is the exam. A personal interview may also take place. It is important to clarify in advance whether dual nationality is allowed to prevent legal conflicts between countries.
Citizenship can be denied for unpaid criminal offenses, providing false information, document forgery, sham marriages, or debts to the state. Therefore, when understanding how to obtain Greek citizenship, it is important not only to meet the requirements but also to address the reasons for possible rejection.
Financial Costs
Obtaining citizenship requires payment of administrative fees, legal services (if using a representative), as well as costs for document preparation and translation. Below are the main cost items that need to be considered in advance:
- government fees for submitting the application;
- translation and legalization of documents;
- legal guidance or advice;
- obtaining statements, apostilles, notarial acts;
- possible costs for exam preparation.
The total costs are rarely less than 1000 euros for self-submission and can range from 3000 to 5000 euros when involving lawyers or brokers.
How to Obtain Greek Citizenship and Not Get Lost in Details
So, how can you obtain Greek citizenship in 2025? Choose the basis that suits your situation: naturalization, marriage, descent, merits. Prepare the documents, learn the language, prove your connection to the state, and meet the requirements.
The Greek passport is not just a document but the result of a systematic approach and patience. And if you act without haste, respecting the rules, the path to citizenship will not be a trial but a natural continuation of your life in the country.
The naturalization procedure is formed as a linear legal process. It begins with the legalization of stay – a residence permit, which is converted into permanent residence. Next, the confirmation of the level of adaptation, payment of fees and passing of mandatory exams is required.
Citizenship by naturalization is formed not by chance, but sequentially — step by step, from legal entry to the final oath. The path is suitable for those who are ready to adapt, learn the language, comply with the laws and integrate into a new society. States perceive citizenship as a tool of trust, and therefore set clear requirements — from residence experience to proven income and knowledge of traditions. Each stage of the process checks not only the documents, but also the intentions.